Self-propelled Snow Blowers?

[RedCloud]

I would get the 2 stage. They have different gears for speed so you can set that to your needs. If my mom can use her toro 2 stage at 5'3" then you should be fine. After using a 2 stage I will never go back to a single stage and have to push and drag that POS as you might as well be shoveling with the amount of effort you use.

 

[RedCloud]

Just make sure it has reverse and it would be IMO.

x2 reverse is a great thing and can come in handy with deeper snow.

 

[hickslawns]

Never priced a Toro 2 stage. We bought 3 of the single stage Toro last year. Hadn't bought any for awhile and it was time to upgrade. They worked well. The old single stages worked well for that matter. One option on the new ones: Electric start. No battery. Simply plug an extention cord into it. Good stuff. Light weight. I am thinking we were around $315-335 for pull start models, and $349-389 for electric start. Can't remember exactly. Both under $400 though.

 

[Big_Holla]

Good point on the electric start Phil, forgot that ours has it but the thing pull starts on the first pull so we almost have never used it. Variable speeds is a must too IMO. Deep snow you want to slow it down and let it work, the not so deep you can set that sucker up to high speed and walk at a fast pace to throw it off. An easily adjustable chute is also a plus, especially when you can adjust it on the fly.

 

["J"]

My first snowblower was a Jacobson paddle type and like Qback stated the paddle will actually aid in the forward movement of the snowblower.... I still say the non self propelled is the way too go, lighter and more manageable for a petite frame....
I'd say run them both and see which feels better for you too operate....